Microsoft is investigating a Windows 11 issue affecting some Samsung laptops after the February 2026 security updates that can make the C: drive inaccessible and prevent applications like Outlook, Office apps, and web browsers from launching. The company is working with Samsung and suspects the Samsung Share app may be involved, and users are advised not to apply a risky workaround that changes C: ownership because it weakens built-in security protections. #SamsungShare #Windows11
Keypoints
- Some Samsung laptops lost access to C: and could not launch common applications after February 2026 updates.
- Microsoft is investigating the issue and is collaborating with Samsung to identify the root cause.
- Errors include “C: is not accessible – Access denied” and can block privilege elevation and update uninstallation.
- The problem has been reported mainly in Brazil, Portugal, South Korea, and India and affects Galaxy Book 4 and other Samsung consumer devices.
- A reported workaround changes ownership of C: to “Everyone,” but this weakens Windows security and is not recommended.